When I first heard from the principal of an agricultural school in rural India, I was struck by the simplicity of the question its leaders had asked themselves: what is right for our children and our community? Their answer was not to bolt on an after-school club. It was to look at the lives, interests and futures of their pupils, and build practical farming and construction skills alongside academic learning. Pupils were not passive recipients. They had a voice in what and how they learned. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.